Ensure 15% drivers in ride booking apps are women: HC to Raj govt
In a significant move to promote women’s safety and empowerment, the Rajasthan High Court has directed the state government to ensure that at least 15% of drivers on ride-booking apps are women. The court further emphasized that this percentage should be increased to 25% over the next 2-3 years. This directive is a welcome step towards creating a more inclusive and secure environment for female passengers using ride-booking services.
The High Court’s order is a response to the growing concern about the safety of women using ride-booking apps. There have been numerous instances of female passengers facing harassment, molestation, and even assault by male drivers. The court’s directive aims to address this issue by increasing the representation of women drivers on these platforms. By doing so, it hopes to provide female passengers with a safer and more comfortable travel experience.
The court’s order also stipulates that female passengers must have the option to choose a female driver first. This is a crucial aspect of the directive, as it recognizes the importance of providing women with a sense of security and comfort while using ride-booking services. By allowing female passengers to choose a female driver, the court is empowering them to take control of their travel experience and make informed decisions about their safety.
The Rajasthan government has been asked to work with ride-booking companies to implement this directive. The government will need to collaborate with companies like Ola and Uber to recruit and train more women drivers. This will not only help to increase the representation of women drivers on these platforms but also provide employment opportunities for women in the state.
The directive is also expected to have a positive impact on the overall safety of women in the state. By increasing the number of women drivers on ride-booking apps, the court is sending a strong message that women’s safety is a priority. This, in turn, is likely to deter potential harassers and perpetrators, as they will be aware that there is a higher likelihood of women drivers being present on these platforms.
The Rajasthan High Court’s order is a significant step forward in promoting women’s safety and empowerment in the state. It recognizes the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for women to travel and work. The directive is also a testament to the court’s commitment to addressing the concerns of women and marginalized communities.
The implementation of this directive will, however, require careful planning and execution. The Rajasthan government will need to work closely with ride-booking companies to recruit and train women drivers. The government will also need to ensure that these drivers are provided with the necessary support and resources to perform their duties safely and effectively.
In addition, the government will need to address the potential challenges that may arise during the implementation of this directive. For example, there may be concerns about the availability of women drivers, particularly in rural areas. The government will need to work with ride-booking companies to develop strategies to address these challenges and ensure that the directive is implemented effectively.
In conclusion, the Rajasthan High Court’s directive to ensure that at least 15% of drivers on ride-booking apps are women is a welcome step towards promoting women’s safety and empowerment. The directive recognizes the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for women to travel and work. The implementation of this directive will require careful planning and execution, but it has the potential to make a significant positive impact on the lives of women in the state.
As the state government works to implement this directive, it is essential to remember that promoting women’s safety and empowerment is an ongoing process. It requires a sustained effort and commitment to creating a culture that values and respects the rights and dignity of women. The Rajasthan High Court’s directive is an important step in this direction, and it is hoped that it will inspire other states to follow suit.
The directive is also a reminder that women’s safety is a collective responsibility. It requires the active participation and engagement of governments, civil society, and individuals to create a safe and inclusive environment for women. As we move forward, it is essential to recognize the importance of promoting women’s safety and empowerment and to work together to create a brighter future for all.
News Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/legal-news/drivers-ride-booking-apps-women-high-court-rajasthan-govt-10392888/lite/
About the Author
